Treatment with the Candela GentleLASE Laser varies from patient to patient depending on the age, size and type of lesion, color of the patient's skin and depth to which the pigment extends beneath the skin's surface. In general these steps will take place: The patient is asked to wear eye protection consisting of an opaque covering or goggles. The skin's reaction to the laser is tested during the first visit to determine the most effective treatment. Treatment consists of placing a handpiece against the surface of the skin and activating the laser. As many patients describe it, each pulse feels like the snapping of a rubber band against the skin. Smaller lesions will require fewer pulses, while larger ones will require more. The GentleLASE Laser is less painful and requires less recovery time than some other treatment methods. The degree of discomfort varies with each person, depending on his/her pain threshold. The results are usually quite dramatic and effect an emotional change in the patient's life. The GentleLASE Laser has a unique ability to selectively treat the pigmented lesion. Thus, it will eliminate the pigment lesion while leaving the surrounding skin undamaged.